Leaders of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN) in Benue State have expressed deep concern over ongoing threats to their members, including allegations of harassment, cattle rustling, and violence in several communities across the state.
In a statement released on Sunday in Makurdi, the association’s chairman, Ardo Risku, and secretary, Ibrahim Galma, reported that one of their members, identified as Sanni Hassan, was killed last Tuesday in the North Bank area of Makurdi by individuals they believe to be Tiv youths.
The group also claimed that between mid-May and June 2, 2025, a total of 1,185 cows were stolen in Agatu and Guma Local Government Areas.
They noted that security operatives have so far recovered 162 of the stolen animals, with 33 reportedly injured.
The whereabouts of the remaining livestock remain unknown.
According to the statement, 150 cows belonging to Umar Rabiu and another 130 belonging to a fellow herder were allegedly taken in Agatu LGA last month.
In a separate incident on June 2, another 905 cows and 54 sheep reportedly owned by Abubakar Abdullahi, Babangida Hassan, Samaila Baba, and the late Sanni Hassan were rustled near the Yogbo area in Guma LGA.
The association added that when herders traveled to Makurdi last Tuesday to reclaim the animals recovered by police, they were attacked along the Lafia Garage area in North Bank. The ambush reportedly resulted in the death of Sanni Hassan.
MACBAN is now urging the state government, the police, and other security agencies to investigate both the killing and the widespread cattle theft.
The group is also appealing for assistance for the bereaved family and those whose livestock were stolen.
When contacted, the Chairman of Agatu LGA, Melvin James, acknowledged receiving reports of the incidents.
He confirmed that investigations are ongoing and advised the association to remain calm while awaiting the outcome.
Similarly, spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed both the killing and the recovery of some cattle.
However, she did not specify the number of rustled animals.
She assured that law enforcement agencies are actively working to bring the perpetrators to justice.
While warning against further cattle rustling, DSP Edet emphasized that the police are committed to maintaining peace in the state and ensuring that those responsible are prosecuted.
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